ס
Samech
Support, protect, surround, sustain
Samech (ס) is the fifteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and its perfectly circular shape makes it unique among Hebrew letters. This closed circle represents God's all-encompassing protection — He surrounds us on every side. The word 'somech' (סוֹמֵךְ) means 'to support' or 'to lean upon,' and Psalm 145:14 declares 'The LORD upholds (somech) all who fall.' Samech teaches that God's support is not partial but complete — a full circle of care that has no gaps or weak points.
How to Pronounce Samech
Samech makes an 'S' sound, like the S in 'sun' or 'song.'
“The LORD upholds (somech) all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.”
Ancient Pictographic Form
The ancient Samech may have resembled a thorn bush (protection) or a prop/support. Its circular form evolved early and influenced the Greek Xi and the Latin letter O-related forms.
Pictograph: A thorn bush or circular shield
Spiritual Significance
Samech represents divine support, protection, and the surrounding presence of God. Its circular shape — closed on all sides — symbolizes completeness of protection. The festival of Sukkot (Tabernacles) features the sukkah, a temporary dwelling that reminds us of God's surrounding care.
Connection to Scripture
Psalm 145:14 uses the root of Samech: 'The LORD upholds (somech) all who fall.' The sukkah (booth) of the Feast of Tabernacles reminds us of God's surrounding protection in the wilderness.
Words That Begin with Samech
Sefer
Book
Sukkah
Booth, tabernacle
Selah
Pause (in Psalms)
Salach
To forgive
Sod
Secret, mystery
Modern Hebrew Usage
In modern Hebrew, Samech appears in words like סֵפֶר (sefer, book), סוּכָּה (sukkah, booth/tabernacle), סֶלָה (selah, a musical term in Psalms), and סָבָא (saba, grandfather).
People Also Ask
What does the circular shape of Samech mean?
Samech's circular shape symbolizes God's complete, all-encompassing protection and support. Unlike letters with openings, Samech is fully closed — representing care that has no gaps. It teaches that God surrounds His people on every side.
What does Selah mean in the Psalms?
Selah (סֶלָה) appears 71 times in the Psalms and 3 times in Habakkuk. While its exact meaning is debated, most scholars believe it's a musical direction meaning 'pause and reflect' or 'lift up' — a moment to let the words sink in.
Fun Fact
Samech is one of only two completely enclosed Hebrew letters (the other is final Mem). During the festival of Simchat Torah, worshippers dance in circles — reflecting the shape of Samech and God's encircling joy.
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